Hair loss - not just subject to genes

The common conception is that hair loss is primarily subject to genes. Whilst this is true to an extent, experts have now found that our environments can also affect whether we lose our hair and the rate and which we lose it.

Whilst many people believe that hair loss affects people with age, follicle experts such as Nilofer Fario believe that exposure to high levels of free radicals, cigarette smoke and herbicides can worsen the if not trigger the condition.

When asked for comment he added :“we have taken biopsies of permanent hair and balding hair and put them under different conditions to compare their growth in the lab,” says Fario. He goes on to highlight the fact that free radicals were shown to be a key contributory. Fario comments: “Up to now, we had assumed that hair loss was hormonally triggered and had genetic susceptibility. But now our research is showing that there’s more to it than that.”-Belgravia,09.

He also claims that we can tell if somebody smokes due to visible discolouration, particularly in grey or bleached hair. In addition to this, he attributes a poor diet with weakened hair.

Past studies have concluded that stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, pregnancy and serious illnesses are contributing factors and Barry Stevens, founder of the Trichological Society claims that doctors are able to diagnose a large number of illnesses through hair fall.

Male pattern hair loss affects 40% of the male population and whilst there is no physical pain, the condition can have a psychological effect on the sufferer. It can also have a nock on affect on confidence levels.

Anybody suffering with hair loss of any kind is advised to seek the advice of a trained health care provider who will be able to determine the best course of action.